Medical studies in Croatia

Advantages of studying medicine in Croatia

Your grade point average has long since ceased to be an argument for giving up the dream of studying medicine, because in many European countries it is also possible without the perfect High School Diploma. What makes studying medicine in Croatia so special?

First class training

Croatian universities enjoy a very good reputation for their high-quality medical education. They are known for their commitment to teaching and research. The facilities, laboratories and hospitals are well equipped and the teaching staff is experienced and dedicated, so you will be well prepared for your medical career.

Internationally recognised study programme

Medical studies in Croatia meet EU standards and are therefore recognised in all EU countries. This gives you the opportunity to work as a doctor in Germany or another EU country of your choice after completing your studies.

Modern student cities

As the modern capital of Croatia, Zagreb offers you numerous nightlife options, cultural institutions and a colourful nightlife during your medical studies. Split and Rijeka are located directly by the sea, so instead of sitting in the library with your books, you could make yourself comfortable on the beach with your reading. Osijek in the east of the country offers numerous parks, cafés and many excursion destinations in the surrounding area.

Dreamlike country

The first thing you associate with Croatia is probably the turquoise sea and the endless beaches. But Croatia has much more to offer: In the numerous nature reserves you will find crystal-clear lakes and vast forests that invite you to go hiking. There is also a lot to discover in terms of cuisine and you should not miss out on the many Croatian delicacies.

At which universities is it possible to study medicine in Croatia?

Medical studies are possible in four different Croatian cities. We give you an overview of the universities in Zagreb, Rijeka, Split and Osijek.

University of Zagreb

At the University of Zagreb, both human medicine and dentistry are offered in English. 50 new students start their medical career there every year. Due to this small number, intensive and excellent supervision is guaranteed. The university's curriculum meets both European and US university standards and there are cooperations with universities worldwide, including the Mayo Clinic in the USA and the University of Toronto in Canada.

The capital of Croatia has a very special charm due to its many historic buildings and you will find numerous leisure facilities here, such as cinemas, restaurants and museums.

University of Rijeka

The University of Rijeka offers medical studies in English and allocates around 80 places per year. The university has a special focus on research, so if you are interested in scientific work, this is the right place for you. It is also possible to study dentistry here.

The city of Rijeka is located directly by the sea and in your free time you can walk along the Korzo, a beautiful pedestrian promenade, visit the Trsat Castle or relax on one of the many beaches.

University of Split

The study of medicine at the University in Split has only been offered since 2011, so the medical faculty's facilities and equipment are very modern and new. The language of instruction is English. There are 60 study places per year, 30 of which are earmarked for students who will complete their entire studies in Split. The university has a cooperation with the Regiomed clinics in Upper Franconia and Southern Thuringia and the remaining study places are allocated to participants in this programme. The students then transfer to one of the Regiomed clinics after the three pre-clinical years.

Split is located in the south of Croatia on a peninsula. In the historic city you can visit many sights, such as the Dioketian Palace, the Split Cathedral or the Temple of Jupiter. A trip to the forest park Marjan, from where you have a spectacular view of Split and the sea, is definitely worthwhile. The numerous bathing bays, which are not far from the old town, invite you to go swimming in good weather.

University of Osijek

The Faculty of Medicine at the University of Osijek is the youngest medical faculty in Croatia. It was founded in 1998. The language of instruction is English, but there are now also courses in German.

Classes are held in small groups of about ten people, which ensures intensive support for the students. A maximum of 60 students are accepted per semester. There are numerous cooperations with other clinics. Through the cooperation with the AMEOS Group, students have the opportunity to transfer to a selected location in Germany after the pre-clinical part of their studies for the clinic.

Osijek is located in eastern Croatia on the border with Slovakia and Hungary. It lies directly on the banks of the Drava River and is known for its excellent gastronomy and numerous cultural events. With an international airport and connections to long-distance bus services, travel to other cities and countries is easy.

Requirements for studying medicine in Croatia

The requirements for studying medicine at universities in Croatia are slightly different at each university:

The High school diploma average is required for the study of medicine at the University in Zagreb not relevant. You only need to prove that you have a general university entrance qualification and sufficient knowledge of English. There is an entrance test in biology, physics and chemistry.

At the University in Rijeka you should have taken at least 2 years of biology, chemistry and physics in the last four school years and have completed them with at least "sufficient". There is an entrance test in which these subjects are tested.

The decisive factor for admission to the University in Split are the grades in biology and chemistry, the letter of motivation and your CV. As the university in Split is very popular, your A-levels should be better than 1.8. An English certificate is also required.

Application requirements for the study programme at the University in Osijek are the general university entrance qualification, a letter of motivation, a CV and English at C1 level. There is also an entrance test and an interview.